Things to Do in Atlanta

FIFA World Cup™ Ultimate Guide to Atlanta

By Heather KarellasJune 18, 2026No Comments

FIFA World Cup Ultimate Guide to Atlanta

In Atlanta for the FIFA World Cup™? Whether you’re a die-hard soccer fan or just looking for an unforgettable experience, this ultimate guide has you covered.

Here, you’ll find the best places to watch the matches, local hotspots to eat, the best accommodations, can’t-miss attractions, and top-rated local experiences to make the most of your time in Atlanta during the FIFA World Cup™. Get ready to explore the city like a local while celebrating one of the world’s biggest sporting events!

FIFA World Cup™ Ultimate Guide to Atlanta

2026 FIFA World Cup™ Schedule

Atlanta is one of 16 host cities for the World Cup™ 2026 from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Our city will host eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (referred to as “Atlanta Stadium” during the games), including five group-stage games and three knockout matches:

Atlanta Group Stage Matches:

Monday, June 15 at 12:00PM ET: Spain vs. Cabo Verde (Group H)
Thursday, June 18 at 12:00 PM ET: Czechia vs. South Africa (Group A)
Sunday, June 21 at 12:00 PM ET: Spain vs. Saudi Arabia (Group H)
Wednesday, June 24 at 6:00 PM ET: Morocco vs. Haiti (Group C)
Saturday, June 27 at 7:30 ET: Congo DR vs. Uzbekistan (Group K)

Atlanta Knockout Stage Matches:

Wednesday, July 1 at 12:00 PM ET: Round of 32: Group L winner vs. third-place team from Groups E/H/I/J/K
Tuesday, July 7 at 12:00 PM ET: Round of 16 match (teams TBD)
Wednesday, July 15 at 3:00 PM ET: Semifinal (teams TBD)

FIFA World Cup™ Essentials

Watch the short video below for the most important things you need to know when visiting Atlanta for the FIFA World Cup™!

How to Get Around Atlanta During the 2026 FIFA World Cup™

Getting around Atlanta during the FIFA World Cup™ will be easier than many visitors and soccer fans expect, thanks to our city’s mix of public transit, walkable downtown districts, and convenient airport connections.

The MARTA public transit rail system is the most efficient way to travel between the airport, downtown, Midtown, and Buckhead. It’s also the recommended option for reaching matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, which sits just steps from nearby MARTA stations.

If you’re staying in Downtown Atlanta, you may be able to walk to many attractions, fan events, and the stadium itself, while rideshare services and bikes or scooters can help with shorter trips around the city. During the tournament, trains will run more frequently and traffic around match venues will be heavy. Planning ahead and using public transit whenever possible will help you make the most of your World Cup™ experience in Atlanta.

Video: Atlanta Airport Hacks Every Traveler Needs to Know

Visitors arriving through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport can hop directly onto MARTA for a quick train ride into the heart of the city, making it easy to start exploring right away. Watch the short video below to learn more and discover Atlanta airport hacks every traveler needs to know!

Video: The Ultimate Guide to Getting Around Atlanta

Learn the best ways to get around our city with the brief video below. Unexpected Atlanta tour guide Kristin shares insider tips on riding Atlanta’s MARTA public transit system, the Atlanta Streetcar light rail system in downtown, navigating Atlanta’s highways, and more.

Video: Using Atlanta’s MARTA Public Transit to get to Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Planning to take MARTA to the World Cup™? You’re in luck! Mercedes-Benz Stadium is one of the easiest stadiums in the country to reach by public transit. Just hop on a MARTA train and navigate to the SEC District Station (formerly called the Georgia Dome/GWCC/CNN Center Station). This stop is a short walk away from the stadium gates.

Watch below as Unexpected Atlanta tour guide Joy shares a step-by-step look at how to ride MARTA to Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium during the FIFA World Cup™. Prefer to take a rideshare like Uber or Lyft? The stadium also has two rideshare lots for easy drop-off and pick-up.

Where to Eat in Atlanta During the FIFA World Cup™

Atlanta’s restaurant scene is strong. During World Cup™ weeks, it will be incredibly busy, so book early! If you’d rather avoid stressing about planning reservations, a guided food tour with Atlanta’s #1 tour company, Unexpected Atlanta, can simplify your planning while providing you with some of the best dishes our city has to offer!

Atlanta Restaurants

As the capital of the South, Atlanta boasts plenty of restaurants, from Michelin-recognized dining to historic spots, casual bites, and everything in between. Below are a few of our favorites.

Paschal’s Restaurant & Bar

Located in the Castleberry Hill neighborhood near Downtown Atlanta, Paschal’s Restaurant & Bar is an important part of Atlanta’s Civil Rights history. During the 1960s, it served as a meeting place for leaders including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr, Ambassador Andrew Young, and Maynard Jackson (the first African-American Mayor of Atlanta). Paschal’s has also been a meeting place for notable entertainers and business people including Aretha Franklin, Dizzy Gillespie, and Vice President Al Gore, among others.

Today, the restaurant continues its legacy with beloved soul food dishes like fried chicken, candied yams, and peach cobbler.

Mary Mac’s Tea Room

Often called “Atlanta’s Dining Room,” Mary Mac’s Tea Room near Midtown Atlanta has been serving classic Southern comfort food since 1945.

Here, you can expect favorites like fried chicken, pot likker (a meat broth with greens), cornbread, black-eyed peas, and buttery biscuits served in a welcoming, old-school setting. Mary Mac’s is the perfect spot to experience the flavors that define traditional Southern cooking.

Gunshow

A open-kitchen Michelin Guide restaurant concept by renowned Atlanta chef Kevin Gillespie, Gunshow offers one of the most unique dining experiences in the city.

Instead of ordering traditionally, chefs bring freshly prepared dishes directly to your table and explain each one, letting you choose what looks best. The ever-changing menu keeps the experience exciting.

Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q

Atlanta has become a serious barbecue destination, and Fox Bros. Bar-B-Q near Atlanta’s Inman Park neighborhood is one of the city’s most beloved spots. Their smoked brisket, ribs, and jalapeño cheddar sausage draw locals and visitors alike, and the laid-back vibe makes it perfect for a casual meal between World Cup™ activities.

The Best Atlanta Food Experiences

If you want to experience the city beyond just a restaurant reservation, food tours are a fantastic way to explore Atlanta’s neighborhoods, meet local chefs, and learn the stories behind the dishes. Here are our favorite memorable Atlanta food experiences to try during the FIFA World Cup™.

Grant Park Atlanta Food Tour

If you want to combine Atlanta history with incredible Southern food, the Grant Park Atlanta Food Tour offers one of the city’s most immersive culinary experiences, not far from Downtown Atlanta.

Over the course of about 2.5 hours, you’ll enjoy eight tastings across three beloved Grant Park restaurants, featuring everything from fresh seafood to artisan pizza and French-inspired pastries. The tour also includes a stroll through the beautiful Grant Park neighborhood and the historic grounds of Oakland Cemetery, where guides share fascinating stories about Atlanta’s past and the people who shaped the city’s culture.

With a small group size and a knowledgeable local guide, the experience feels personal and relaxed. It’s perfect for visitors who want to explore beyond downtown while sampling some of Atlanta’s most delicious bites!

Prohibition Progressive Dinner: Atlanta Cocktails & Food Experience

For a truly unforgettable evening in Atlanta, the Prohibition Progressive Dinner blends gourmet dining, craft cocktails, and fascinating storytelling.

During this three-hour experience, you’ll visit four acclaimed Downtown Atlanta restaurants, enjoying nine tastings and three full-size cocktails along the way. The evening is inspired by the glamour and intrigue of the 1920s, and the tour is led by a lively guide who brings Atlanta’s Prohibition-era stories to life.

Along the route, you’ll discover hidden speakeasy-style spaces, enjoy skyline views from one of Atlanta’s most iconic rooftop lounges, and even get a peek at the iconic Coca-Cola vault! The experience is all-inclusive and designed to feel like a night out in the Roaring ’20s, making it a fun option for couples, groups of friends, or anyone looking for a memorable evening in our city.

Atlanta Activities for Small Groups & Families

Beyond the excitement of the FIFA World Cup™ matches, Atlanta offers a rich mix of art, history, and iconic attractions. Whether you want to explore vibrant street art, walk through important Civil Rights landmarks, visit one of the world’s largest aquariums, or book a private event, our top-rated experiences showcase some of the best things to do in the city.

Plus, our Unexpected Atlanta headquarters building is just two blocks away from the stadium where the matches will be held, at 121 Luckie Street and directly in front of the Atlanta Street Luckie and Cone stop. If you’re confused while you’re here, come and meet our knowledgeable tour guides who will help you make the most of your time in the city. Or, just stop in for some air conditioning and to buy some Atlanta souvenirs!

Experience Atlanta’s Street Art

Atlanta has one of the most dynamic street art scenes in the U.S., with colorful murals and thought-provoking works appearing throughout the city. The best way to explore it is through the Atlanta Art and Mural Tour, a guided experience that takes you through Atlanta’s eclectic Cabbagetown neighborhood, the famous Krog Street Tunnel, and sections of the Atlanta Beltline paved trail.

During this 2.5-hour walking tour, you’ll learn how Atlanta’s street art connects to our city’s history of activism and creativity, hear stories about local artists, and see murals created for the Forward Warrior Festival. You’ll even get the chance to tap into your own creativity during a hands-on street art activity while enjoying a relaxed happy-hour stop along the way!

Explore Civil Rights History with Atlanta’s #1 Tour Company

Atlanta is the birthplace of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and visiting the historic district where he lived and worked is one of the most meaningful experiences in the city. The Martin Luther King Jr. Atlanta Tour from Atlanta’s #1 tour company offers an in-depth look at the Civil Rights Movement and the leaders who helped shape it. This is a “can’t-miss” experience, named by Conde Nast as one of the best things to do in Atlanta!

Led by passionate local guides, this immersive walking tour explores Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward and Sweet Auburn neighborhoods, including sites such as Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church (when open), the King Center, and the memorial honoring Dr. King and Coretta Scott King.

Along the way, you”ll hear powerful stories about Dr. King, Congressman John Lewis, and the many activists who helped spark a global Civil Rights movement.

Traveling with kids? Unexpected Atlanta also offers a special MLK Tour for Kids, perfect for families and children ages 6-12! Your kids will walk away from this tour with a strong understanding of how Atlanta changed the world while feeling like they took a fun field trip.

Walk the Atlanta Beltline

One of the most popular places to explore Atlanta like a local is the Atlanta Beltline, a network of trails and parks built along historic railway corridors that circle the city.

The Beltline connects vibrant neighborhoods, public art installations, breweries, markets, and restaurants, making it an ideal place to walk, bike, or simply soak in Atlanta’s creative energy.

The Eastside Trail is especially popular with visitors and runs between neighborhoods like Inman Park, Old Fourth Ward, and Poncey-Highland. Along the way, you’ll find murals, outdoor patios, and scenic skyline views. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing break between World Cup™ matches!

Visit the Georgia Aquarium

A visit to the Georgia Aquarium is another must-do while in the city. Located in downtown Atlanta near Centennial Olympic Park, the aquarium is one of the largest in the world and home to thousands of marine animals.

Visitors can explore massive ocean habitats, walk through a stunning underwater tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays, and learn about marine conservation through interactive exhibits and presentations. It’s a fantastic attraction for families, couples, and anyone looking to add a memorable indoor adventure to your Atlanta itinerary.

More of the Best Downtown Atlanta Attractions to Explore

Atlanta Activities for Large Groups During the FIFA World Cup™

Traveling with a large group? Make your first stop the Unexpected Atlanta headquarters building, just two blocks away from the stadium where the matches will be held, at 121 Luckie Street and directly in front of the Atlanta Street Luckie and Cone stop.

Our knowledgeable tour guides will help you make the most of your time in the city and help you navigate Atlanta with your crew. Or, just stop in for some air conditioning and to buy some Atlanta souvenirs!

Book a Private Tour

Traveling with friends, family, or coworkers during the FIFA World Cup™? Book a private tour with Unexpected Atlanta for a personalized way to experience the city.

Private tours allow your group to explore Atlanta at your own pace while enjoying exclusive access to some of the city’s most fascinating neighborhoods, restaurants, and historic sites.

Private tour options to choose from:

Unexpected Atlanta’s passionate local tour guides bring our city’s stories to life, combining engaging storytelling with delicious food, art, and culture. Your private tour can also be customized with celebration packages, making them perfect for family reunions, corporate outings, bachelor and bachelorette parties, or any group looking to create a memorable Atlanta experience.

Whether you’re visiting for the World Cup™ or simply exploring the city, a private tour offers a fun, seamless way to discover Atlanta like an insider.

Celebrate at World Cup™ FanFestival™ Experiences

If you can’t stomach the thousands of dollars to buy World Cup™ tickets for your large group, you can still attend Free FanFestival™ events in Centennial Olympic Park in Downtown Atlanta! Additionally, you can head to watch parties being organized in Downtown Decatur and on the Beltline.

FanFest will be a way for everyone to come and experience the excitement of the FIFA World Cup™, whether you’re an avid soccer fan or just a casual watcher.

Best of all, both the stadium and Centennial Olympic Park are in the heart of downtown, meaning that you are within walking distance of most hotels in the city, tons of restaurants, and the MARTA public transit system.

The Best Places to Stay in Atlanta for the FIFA World Cup™

Watch the short video below to discover the best places to stay for the Atlanta FIFA World Cup™. Then, read on to find the details, FAQs about the event, and more.

Be sure to book your hotel early for the FIFA World Cup™. Hotel prices have already surged for dates during this event. Below are our favorite places to stay in Downtown Atlanta, Midtown, Old Fourth Ward, and the Decatur neighborhood.

Downtown Atlanta Hotels

With Atlanta hosting multiple FIFA World Cup™ matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, choosing a hotel close to downtown and surrounding attractions will make your trip smoother and save you from the hassle of traffic.

Fortunately for soccer match-goers, nearly half of all hotel rooms in our city are located in Downtown Atlanta, with more than 13,000 rooms within a mile of the Mercedes Benz stadium! The pros of staying downtown include zero commute stress and easy walkability to all of the major city attractions including the stadium, FanFest, and popular spots like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola. Of course, the cons are that Downtown Atlanta hotels will have the highest prices and heaviest crowds.

Read on to find some of our top downtown picks for comfort, convenience, and experience.

Signia by Hilton Atlanta

The Signia by Hilton Atlanta is a beautiful, brand-new hotel that’s directly connected to the stadium. You can’t beat the location, but expect prices to be high for any available rooms on match days.

Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park

Overlooking Centennial Olympic Park and a short five minute walk from the stadium, the Omni Atlanta combines classic elegance with modern amenities and updated rooms.

Here, you can enjoy an outdoor pool, multiple dining options, and quick access to downtown attractions – including the World Cup™ FanFestival™ taking place nearby at Centennial Olympic Park.

The Westin Peachtree Plaza

This iconic cylindrical skyline hotel with skyline views is a stunning place to stay. Designed by famed architect John Portman, it’s conveniently located a ten to fifteen minute walk from the stadium, near the Peachtree Center food court and Peachtree Center MARTA station.

Atlanta Marriott Marquis

Best known as a filming location for The Hunger Games movies and the Disney+ series Loki, the Atlanta Marriott Marquis has a futuristic feel that makes it a unique pick. Its iconic 52-story atrium and glass elevators and renovated rooms make this a great choice for World Cup™ fans.

The hotel is also host to Dragon Con each September, the largest multi-genre and pop culture convention in the world!

Midtown Atlanta Hotels

If you want to get away from the chaos of downtown, head to Midtown Atlanta. Many of the city’s luxury hotels are located in this area.

Midtown is best for:

Visitors who want to experience Atlanta’s nightlife and arts scene
People who want more local Atlanta restaurant access
Those who want to get a little distance from the hustle and bustle of downtown

Some upsides of staying in Midtown are the strong restaurant and bar scene, walkability, arts attractions, and the green space at Piedmont Park. However, note that prices will generally be high because most hotels in this area are luxury, and it will take you at least thirty minutes to get to the stadium.

Here are some of our favorite Midtown Atlanta hotels to consider during the FIFA World Cup™:

Loews Atlanta Hotel

This AAA Four Diamond hotel is located in the heart of Midtown’s arts district. The Loews Atlanta Hotel is known among locals for its stellar accommodations and its on-site restaurant, Ashland – a favorite lunch spot with many professionals who work nearby.

The Starling Atlanta Midtown

The Starling Atlanta Midtown hotel is located next to Colony Square, which offers an excellent selection of restaurants and entertainment options. For instance, enjoy delicious dining at Rumi’s Kitchen and a chef-driven food hall at Politan Row.

Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta

The high-end Four Seasons Atlanta has an upscale bar and spa and is located within a block from a Whole Foods, making it an easy option to get food nearby.

How to get to Mercedes-Benz Stadium from Midtown Atlanta Hotels

For each Midtown Atlanta hotel option, to get to the stadium, you will need to take MARTA. Start at either the Arts Center or Midtown Station, and then take the red or yellow line down to Five Points MARTA station.

From there, you can transfer to the blue and green lines and go to the SEC District Station. It will take you about twenty to thirty minutes to get from Midtown to the Atlanta Stadium.

Or, you can take a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft.

Old Fourth Ward Area Airbnbs & Home Rentals

If you prefer Airbnbs or home rentals – or if you’re traveling with a family – your best bet is going to be Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward neighborhood. This historic area not far from Downtown Atlanta is best for:

Families or groups who want more space
People on a budget
Those who don’t mind a longer walk into the stadium

Atlanta’s Old Fourth Ward has almost 400 Airbnbs available for rent. Additionally, in this neighborhood, you’ll enjoy easy access to the Atlanta Beltline, a pedestrian path that leads directly to the Atlanta Stadium.

You’ll also enjoy close proximity to hotspots like Krog Street Market and Ponce City Market, which are the city’s most popular food halls.

In addition to vacation rentals, the recently opened Forth Hotel or the Hotel Clermont are great alternative choices to the traditional hotel that you might find in Midtown or Downtown.

Four options to get to Mercedes-Benz Stadium from Old Fourth Ward:

Walk to the King Center Station or the Inman Park MARTA station. Both are located on the green and blue MARTA lines and will take you directly to the SEC District.
If you’re staying closer to Krog Street Market, you can walk to the Streetcar line near the Martin Luther King Jr. Historic neighborhood. Then, take the Streetcar to Centennial Olympic Park, where you’re a short walk from Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Take a scooter or e-bike down the Beltline directly to the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. During Atlanta United games and Atlanta Falcons games, the stadium offers a free bike valet, located across from Gate 3 on Georgia International Plaza. This allows you to drop off your bike and provide your phone number. Then, you simply show your text message when you’re ready to pick up. It’s not confirmed if the bike valet will be active during the FIFA World Cup™, but if it is, we recommend this as a great way to get from the Old Fourth Ward to the stadium, because you can take bike lanes almost the whole way down.
Use a rideshare service.

The pros to staying in Old Fourth Ward include less congestion, the advantage of the walkable Beltline and all of the restaurants and bars along it, as well as high-end retail and greenspace. The cons are a longer commute to the stadium, as well as the least convenient MARTA commute to the stadium.

Where to Stay in Decatur

Decatur is our top choice for budget travelers and those with families. This neighborhood is best for:

Travelers who want charm
Visitors seeking a budget-friendly option
Food lovers and families
Those who want to enjoy the World Cup™ but avoid the intensity

Decatur is a wonderful walkable neighborhood about thirty minutes away from the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and on MARTA’s blue line, making it convenient to get to the matches without transferring train lines.

Hotel options in Downtown Decatur:

While you shouldn’t expect luxury accommodations here, these are solid, budget-friendly options that provide a clean and comfortable bed and are located within a few minutes walk of Downtown Decatur.

Downtown Decatur is filled with excellent restaurants and eclectic local shops. During the World Cup™, Decatur will be hosting Watch Parties, with free concerts from bands like the Indigo Girls.

Additionally, MARTA is located directly in the center of Downtown Decatur, making this a convenient method to get to the SEC District. It will take you around 25 minutes to get to the stadium with no transfers.

Decatur is probably the most underrated location to stay for the World Cup™. We like it because of its walkable square, great restaurants, local energy, and easy train access. If you are on a budget, this is the smart insider move!

Frequently asked Questions About the FIFA World Cup™ in Atlanta

Where is the Atlanta Stadium?

All World Cup™ matches in Atlanta will take place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, known as Atlanta Stadium during the games, located in Downtown Atlanta next to Centennial Olympic Park.

FIFA is creating a “Clean Zone” surrounding Downtown Atlanta, meaning that only advertisers who have specifically purchased into FIFA World Cup™ will be permitted to advertise. As a result, though Atlanta’s stadium is normally called Mercedes-Benz Stadium, for the FIFA games, the Mercedes-Benz logo will be removed and the stadium will be called Atlanta Stadium.

This is one of the most stunning stadiums in the country, opened in 2017 and host to the MLS Cup in 2018 and Super Bowl in 2019. The stadium’s signature feature is its retractable roof, which consists of eight translucent, triangular panels. Below the roof is a 360-degree halo video board which is three times larger than any other display board in the NFL.

Where can I get food inside the Atlanta Stadium?

There are numerous bars and concession areas within the stadium, including some local options such as the Varsity, Farm Burger, and Papi’s Cuban Grill. The Stadium’s concessions are famously affordable, providing an easy way to fuel up during the matches!

Find all of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium food and beverage vendors here.

What’s the Best Way to Get to Mercedes-Benz Stadium?

The stadium connects directly to Atlanta’s MARTA public transit rail on the SEC District Station (Sports, Entertainment, and Convention District), formerly called the Georgia Dome/GWCC/CNN Center Station.

You can also take a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, with convenient drop-off and pick-up access at two Mercedes-Benz Stadium rideshare lots.

What should I pack for my visit to Atlanta?

Atlanta in June and July is hot and humid, so plan accordingly! We recommend lightweight clothing, hydration, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. We also recommend bringing a simple pocket fan or a poncho that you can stash easily, since weather can change throughout the day.

Why Is the World Cup™ a Big Deal?

Since 1930, eighteen countries have been FIFA World Cup™ hosts and, for the first time, in World Cup™ history, three countries are jointly hosting the FIFA World Cup™ in 2026.

Games are spread across sixteen cities throughout Canada, Mexico, and the United States, featuring a record 104 games. Atlanta will host eight matches, including one of the exciting semi-final matches!

An expected 500,000 attendees are expected to be in Atlanta, and officials have described hosting the World Cup™ like hosting eight back-to-back Super Bowls over a one-month time period.

Ready for the FIFA World Cup™? Atlanta is waiting to welcome you with thrilling matches, vibrant neighborhoods, and a food and culture scene that’s just as exciting as the action on the pitch!

Take your World Cup™ experience to the next level with Unexpected Atlanta’s top-rated guided tours – from mouthwatering food adventures to historic neighborhood strolls and Prohibition-era cocktail nights, you’ll see the city like a local and make memories that go far beyond the stadium. Don’t just visit Atlanta – dive in, explore, and experience it like a true insider!

Traveling with a group? Connect with Unexpected Atlanta to plan a customized special outing!

Fill out our short contact form below, and a member of the Unexpected Atlanta team will reach out to bring your experience to life. Join us to see why we’re the #1-rated Atlanta Tour & Activity company on TripAdvisor!